First-Time Homebuyer Tips: Choose the Right Mortgage Lender

by Ellen Garcia 01/25/2018

Applying for a mortgage is one of the biggest decision that an individual can make in his or her lifetime. As such, it is important for a first-time homebuyer to dedicate the necessary time and resources to employ the best mortgage lender – without exception.

So what does it take to hire the ideal mortgage lender? Here are three tips to help a first-time homebuyer quickly and effortlessly choose the right mortgage lender.

1. Consider a Variety of Lenders

There is no shortage of top-notch lenders in cities and towns across the United States. Thus, a first-time homebuyer can meet with a variety of credit unions and banks to explore all of the mortgage options at his or her disposal.

Spend some time learning about lenders in your area. Look at each lender's experience and reputation, and you may be better equipped than other homebuyers to select the ideal lender based on your individual needs.

Furthermore, conduct face-to-face meetings with lenders. These meetings will allow you to learn about a wide range of mortgage options and will make it easy for you to make an informed decision.

2. Ask Plenty of Questions

When it comes to getting a mortgage for the first time, there is no need to leave anything to chance. Instead, ask plenty of questions as you consult with assorted lenders, and you can gain the insights you need to pick a lender that matches or exceeds your expectations.

Remember, there is no such thing as a "bad" question, particularly when it comes to mortgages. If you meet with various lenders, you can get all of your mortgage concerns and queries addressed without delay.

A first-time homebuyer who asks lots of questions may be able to avoid potential financial pitfalls down the line too. In fact, this homebuyer should have no trouble selecting a great lender who can fulfill his or her mortgage needs for years to come.

3. Consult with a Real Estate Agent

Let's face it – selecting a lender may prove to be exceedingly difficult. Fortunately, a real estate agent is happy to provide honest, unbiased advice to help you find the right lender in no time at all.

A real estate agent understands the challenges of obtaining a terrific mortgage, and as a result, will do everything possible to help a homebuyer discover a lender that can provide outstanding support day after day. Plus, a real estate agent can even help a homebuyer alleviate stress as he or she searches for the right lender.

Let's not forget about the support that a real estate agent can provide throughout the entire homebuying journey, either. Typically, a real estate agent can keep a homebuyer informed about new residences as they become available, set up home showings, negotiate with a home seller on buyer's behalf and much more.

Get the right mortgage any time you choose – use the aforementioned tips, and a first-time homebuyer can streamline the process of selecting the ideal lender.

About the Author
Author

Ellen Garcia

Ellen Garcia Broker, GRI, SRS, ABR, RSPS, SRES, RENE, MRP, LRS, LSE, LSS, AHWD, e-PROÒ Ellen believes that listening and understanding her clients' needs are the foundation of a successful business partnership. Her knowledge of the many unique communities in Fairfield County is an invaluable asset to clients new to the area, and she is able to help anyone moving to, from or within Fairfield County make an easier transition into a new home and community. For clients who are preparing to sell their homes, Ellen offers her first-hand knowledge of how to leverage the strength of a "brand" in showcasing and marketing their properties. Ellen offers a powerful advantage in bringing her skills and resources to work for her clients. With over 10 years, of full-time experience in the real estate industry, she is well-versed in the Fairfield County real estate market. Ellen has successfully completed: · Over 130 closed sales and rental transactions · Representing a dollar volume of over $65 million Ellen’s people skills lead the way in building a strong network to assist and support her clients in achieving their goals through every step of the real estate process: · Negotiations both local and global · New business development (sales & marketing) · Creative problem solving · Building partnerships · Tapping into Halstead Property’s network of 1100 agents in NYC and Lower Fairfield County Her career in Real Estate has been recognized with many awards including: "Agent of the Year” for Halstead Property Wilton and "Most Closed Sale and Listing Transactions” numerous times. Within Connecticut, Ellen has been recognized over the past several years as a "Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor”. Awards 2016 & 2014 AGENT OF THE YEAR – HALSTEAD WILTON – HIGHEST GROSS SALES 2016 - 2011 CONNECTICUT MAGAZINE 5-STAR REALTOR AWARD 2016 - 2013 MOST CLOSED LISTINGS – Wilton Office 2016, 2014 - 2012 MOST CLOSED SALES – Wilton Office 2016, 2015, 2014 HALSTEAD PROPERTY PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL 2013, 2012 & 2011 HALSTEAD PROPERTY DIRECTOR’S COUNCIL 2014 HALSTEAD – PLATINUM CIRCLE 2016 HALSTEAD - GOLD CIRCEL 2015, 2013 HALSTEAD – SILVER CIRCLE 2007 COUNTRY LIVING ASSOCIATES OUTSTANDING RELOCATION SPECIALIST PRESIDENT'S AWARD (2005, 2006 & 2007). Leading Real Estate Companies of the World PREMIER CLUB – SILVER AWARD FOR REFERRAL ACHIEVEMENT (2006) Sales Associates Recognition Program Professional Associations: · Connecticut Association of Realtors (CAR) · National Association of Realtors (NAR) · Consolidated Multiple Listing Service (CMLS) · Connecticut State-wide MLS (CTMLS) · Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors (MFCAR) · Senior Advantage Real Estate Council (SAREC) · Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC) · Seller’s Representative Specialist Council (SRS) · e-PRO Professional Designations: · BROKER · ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) · SRS (Seller’s Representative Specialist) · RENE (Real Estate Negotiation Expert) · GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) · RSPS (Resort and Second Property Specialist) · MRP (Military Relocation Professional) · SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) · LRS (LeadingRE Relocation Specialist) · LSS (LeadingRE Sales Specialist) · LSE (LeadingRE Service Expert) · AHWD (At Home with Diversity: One America) · REALTOR e-PRO · CONNECTICUT TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION